01 December 2020
Urinary incontinence (UI) is a common consequence of radical prostatectomy for which men often feel unprepared despite the provision of information about treatment and management. The aim of this study was to explore from the patient’s perspective the nature of information and support men require to aid adjustment to daily life with UI. In a qualitative study using a convenience sample, recruited men (n=35) were aged over 18 years old and were less than 18 months post radical prostatectomy. Data were collected using interviews and a thematic analysis was performed. The study identified that men need less rather than more information, which should be succinct, and focused on management of incontinence to enable them to cope with daily activities. Effective management strategies rather than an overreliance on treatment methods, which may be ineffective, were also key to enabling successful adjustment. Men need clarity about care pathways, including access to appropriate contact information. Finally, men describe the confusion experienced when choosing containment products and require clear, concise information.
